Apple Crisp Cheesecake: Delicious Autumn Dessert

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Delight! This recipe combines the best of three worlds: a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a sweet-tart apple crisp topping that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you’re hosting a cozy fall gathering or simply craving a decadent treat, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them clamoring for more.

I first stumbled upon this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Delight at a potluck, where it stole the show and became an instant hit. Since then, it has been a staple in my dessert repertoire, especially during apple season. The combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy apple crisp, and warm spices is a match made in dessert heaven. Plus, it’s a versatile treat that can grace your table year-round, bringing that comforting feeling of home with every bite. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

Quick Benefits

• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for gatherings year-round whenever apples are in season and guests are hungry.
• Delicious Flavor Fusion: Enjoy the sweet-tart apple crisp topping melting into a silky cheesecake base with a buttery graham cracker crust.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Stores beautifully in the fridge, and you can even freeze the baked cheesecake for up to a month, maintaining its creamy texture and crunchy oat topping.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A true crowd pleaser that always leaves people coming back for seconds, making it a hit at any event or celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp Cheesecake: Delicious Autumn Dessert Recipe

• Perfect Combination: Enjoy the cozy, homey feel of apple crisp, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the buttery graham cracker crust in one delightful dessert.
• Crowd Favorite: Impress your friends and family with a dessert that disappears before the meal is even over – a sure hit for gatherings and celebrations.
• Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe to different seasons by swapping apples for pears or peaches, making it a go-to dessert year-round.
• Make-ahead Option: Prepare in advance and freeze for up to a month, perfect for planning special occasions or unexpected guests.
• Beautiful Presentation: Elevate your dessert table with a zigzag of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of oats, or toasted apple slices for an eye-catching finish.
• Traditional Comfort: Experience the nostalgia of apple crisp combined with the special touch of cheesecake, creating a dessert that feels both familiar and special.
• Texture Contrast: Delight in the contrast of the crumbly, golden oat topping against the creamy cheesecake layer, offering a satisfying textural experience.
• Creamy & Cozy: Each slice promises a cozy, creamy, and pure apple bliss that will keep you coming back for seconds and asking for the recipe.

Ingredients for Apple Crisp Cheesecake: Delicious Autumn Dessert

Crust

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 12 graham crackers, finely crushed

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Topping

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Whipped topping, for garnish (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pro Tips for Apple Crisp Cheesecake: Delicious Autumn Dessert

Pro Tip 1: To keep the crust from getting soggy, store the cheesecake in the coldest part of your fridge and only slice what you plan to eat. This way, the remaining cheesecake stays fresh longer, ideal for those who enjoy their cheesecake straight from the fridge.

Pro Tip 2: Don’t have graham crackers on hand? No worries! Try using crushed digestive biscuits or ginger snaps for a different flavor profile. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for unique twists, or add a hint of cardamom or nutmeg to the oat topping for extra spice.

Pro Tip 3: For a picture-perfect presentation, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake and consider garnishing with lightly toasted apple slices. If you’re looking to make this dessert ahead of time, the cheesecake can be frozen after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for best results.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake: Delicious Autumn Dessert

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 325°F and lightly grease an 8- or 9-inch springform pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix and Form the Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, cinnamon, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Press mixture evenly onto bottom and up sides of pan.

Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Filling

In a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer, combine cream cheese, caramel sauce, and sugar until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time. Add sour cream and vanilla. Sift in flour, salt, and cinnamon; mix until combined. Pour over crust and spread evenly.

Step 4: Prepare Topping and Assemble

In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in softened butter until mixture is crumbly. Spread chopped apple evenly over cheesecake filling in the pan, then sprinkle with oat topping.

Step 5: Set up Water Bath and Bake

Wrap the outside of the pan in aluminum foil. Place the pan in a large roasting pan and add enough boiling water to reach halfway up the sides. Bake until the center has a slight jiggle, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Step 6: Cool Gradually and Chill

After baking, turn off the oven, prop the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Remove foil, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled and set.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Just before serving, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the cheesecake slices and top with whipped cream, if desired.

Storage Tips

To store the Apple Crisp Cheesecake Delight, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the coldest section of your refrigerator to maintain its freshness. This helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy. Slice only what you plan to eat to keep the remainder fresh, especially if you prefer serving cold cheesecake directly from the fridge.

If you want to freeze the baked cheesecake, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Surprisingly, the texture remains creamy, and the oat topping retains its crunch even after freezing, making it a convenient make-ahead option for future enjoyment. The Apple Crisp Cheesecake Delight is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed year-round and is sure to become a family favorite for gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or ginger snaps for a different twist to the base. Lactose-free cream cheese is a great substitute, and coconut sugar can replace brown sugar in the topping for a slightly different flavor profile. When selecting apples, choose a crisp variety that you enjoy eating raw, such as Granny Smith for a tart contrast or a sweeter variety for a milder taste.

For seasonal variations, consider using pears or peaches in the summer, cranberries for a festive winter version, or pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall-inspired flavor. If you prefer more spice, you can add a hint of cardamom or nutmeg to the oat topping before baking. Experiment with different fruits and spices to create unique variations of this dessert that suit your preferences and the seasonal produce available.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Apple Crisp Cheesecake Delight, consider serving individual mini cheesecakes in elegant glass jars or ramekins. Layer the buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and apple crisp topping for a visually stunning dessert that showcases each component beautifully. Top each jar with a dollop of whipped topping and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a picture-perfect finish.

For a more interactive dessert experience, set up a DIY cheesecake bar at your next gathering. Provide assorted toppings like extra caramel sauce, toasted oats, thinly sliced apples, and a variety of nuts for guests to customize their Apple Crisp Cheesecake. Let them build their own mini cheesecakes by layering the components in individual bowls or jars, creating a fun and personalized dessert that everyone will enjoy.

FAQs for Apple Crisp Cheesecake: Delicious Autumn Dessert

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of apples based on your preference. While tart apples like Granny Smith add a tangy balance, sweeter varieties can work for a milder flavor. Adjust the sugar as needed to suit the apple’s sweetness.

How should I store this cheesecake?

For storage, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the coldest area of your fridge to prevent the crust from getting soggy. Slice only what you plan to eat to keep the remainder fresh. This cheesecake stores well, especially when served cold.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cheesecake for up to one month. After cooling and chilling, wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. The texture remains creamy, and the oat topping retains its crunch surprisingly well.

Why is a springform pan recommended for this recipe?

A springform pan is recommended for easier release and neat slices, particularly for layered desserts like this cheesecake. It allows you to remove the sides easily, preserving the layers and presentation of the dessert.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Delight is a true gem that brings together the best of both worlds – the comforting flavors of apple crisp and the indulgent creaminess of cheesecake. Whether you’re looking for a special treat for a gathering or simply want to elevate your dessert game, this recipe is sure to impress.

So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Delight and watch as it disappears before your eyes, leaving behind only smiles and satisfied bellies. With its delicious layers of apple goodness and creamy cheesecake, this dessert is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation!